Best Water Grants in Massachusetts

Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MASSDEP)

MassDEP's mission is to protect and enhance the Commonwealth's natural resources - air, water, and land - to provide for the health, safety, and welfare of all people, and to ensure a clean and safe environment for future generations. In carrying out this mission MassDEP commits to address and advance environmental justice and equity for all people of the Commonwealth, provide meaningful, inclusive opportunities for people to participate in agency decisions that affect their lives; and ensure a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve.​

MassDEP Commercial Refrigeration Grant

This program provides financial incentives for retail food businesses, food banks, and nonprofit organizations to install more climate-friendly commercial refrigeration equipment.

Through its Commercial Refrigeration Grant Program, MassDEP is providing financial incentives for voluntary adoption of more climate-friendly, low global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants in commercial refrigeration equipment across the state.

MassDEP will pay your grant funds on a reimbursement basis after you submit invoices and required documentation.

Eligible Projects

Program funding to support projects for ultra-low-GWP systems is available for new or existing retail food locations, food banks, and nonprofit institutions in Massachusetts that plan to install refrigeration systems that contain ultra-low-GWP (<10) refrigerants. Eligible costs for ultra-low-GWP systems include the cost of the refrigeration equipment and its installation.

Eligible Project Types: Type I – New Facilities; Type II – Existing Facilities

Type II – Existing Facilities

Installation of ultra-low-GWP (<10) refrigerant systems

• Full system conversion
• Partial system conversion

Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MASSDEP)

MassDEP's mission is to protect and enhance the Commonwealth's natural resources - air, water, and land - to provide for the health, safety, and welfare of all people, and to ensure a clean and safe environment for future generations. In carrying out this mission MassDEP commits to address and advance environmental justice and equity for all people of the Commonwealth, provide meaningful, inclusive opportunities for people to participate in agency decisions that affect their lives; and ensure a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve.​

MassDEP Commercial Refrigeration Grant

This program provides financial incentives for retail food businesses, food banks, and nonprofit organizations to install more climate-friendly commercial refrigeration equipment.

Through its Commercial Refrigeration Grant Program, MassDEP is providing financial incentives for voluntary adoption of more climate-friendly, low global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants in commercial refrigeration equipment across the state.

MassDEP will pay your grant funds on a reimbursement basis after you submit invoices and required documentation.

Eligible Projects

Program funding to support projects for ultra-low-GWP systems is available for new or existing retail food locations, food banks, and nonprofit institutions in Massachusetts that plan to install refrigeration systems that contain ultra-low-GWP (<10) refrigerants. Eligible costs for ultra-low-GWP systems include the cost of the refrigeration equipment and its installation.

Eligible Project Types: Type I – New Facilities; Type II – Existing Facilities

Type I – New Facilities

Installation of ultra-low-GWP (<10) refrigerant systems

The DanPaul Foundation aims to enhance early childhood development by training teachers and parents, protecting children from abuse, and promoting social responsibility. They provide grants to non-profits for programs that focus on education, health, and welfare of youth. Key initiatives include scholarships, environmental education, and support for underprivileged children. Grant amounts range from a few hundred dollars to $15,000 annually, with a focus on impactful, community-driven projects.

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) cultural institutions with audited expenses over $2 million can apply for William Randolph Hearst Foundation’s Culture Grant, awarding more than US $100,000 for arts and culture programs. Massachusetts museums, performing arts organizations, and arts education programs may be eligible for program, capital, limited general operating, or endowment support.

Massachusetts-based 501(c)(3) public charities and governmental units can apply for the Humane Society of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ grants, awarding US $5,000 - US $50,000 for water-related safety education, rescue services, and research. Funding supports one-time projects, equipment purchases, start-up programs, and academic or health sciences research focused on preventing and treating injuries on the water.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Massachusetts seeking support for charitable, educational, scientific, or medical programs may be eligible for this funding, which must be used in the U.S. Grants from Sidney Stern Memorial Trust help broadly focused, well-managed organizations that significantly benefit their communities, including those working on water resource or freshwater conservation initiatives.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3), (4), (6), or (19) nonprofits with at least $250K in annual revenue can seek US $50,000 - US $400,000 for sustainability projects from Green Mountain Energy. Focused on environmental initiatives, the Sun Club invites Massachusetts organizations working on freshwater conservation, water resource management, and related sustainability efforts to propose impactful community projects.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

Municipal water utilities in Massachusetts can receive US $75,000 - US $350,000 to implement energy efficiency and clean energy generation projects that lower energy use and operating costs. The Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources, working with MassDEP and the Clean Energy Center, helps utilities upgrade infrastructure that supports both water resource management and green infrastructure goals.

Eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Norfolk County, Massachusetts can apply for Penn National Gaming Foundation support to run community development, education, health, human services, cultural, or veteran and military support programs. Organizations may use funding for local projects that improve quality of life and address broad community needs where the company operates.

Massachusetts nonprofits focused on environmental conservation and coastal ecosystems can access funding through New England Biolabs Foundation for community-based projects that protect water, soil, and related ecosystem services. Eligible projects along the North Shore may also incorporate arts, education, or civic engagement to promote environmental protection and community inclusion.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Massachusetts working on basic needs, community development, cultural enrichment, or volunteer-driven programs can seek support for hunger relief, housing, financial literacy, workforce readiness, and arts access. With a mission to strengthen communities, Ameriprise Financial provides U.S. nonprofits with grants that prioritize strong volunteer engagement and measurable outcomes.

Agricultural producers in Massachusetts seeking support for water management, irrigation improvements, or conservation practices can apply for funding from USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service of Massachusetts. This program helps manage financial risk through resource conservation, including water-related projects, and may benefit farms working on water conservation or broader water resource management efforts.

Tax-exempt nonprofit child care providers in Massachusetts can receive capital funding to develop or improve facilities serving predominantly low-income families. MassDevelopment’s Early Education and Out of School Time Small Grant Program supports rehabilitation projects such as outdoor play spaces, HVAC upgrades, indoor reconfiguration, safety and accessibility improvements, and security enhancements, with awards ranging from US $200,000 - US $499,999.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) conservation and community organizations, municipalities, Tribal Nations, and agencies in Massachusetts and other Appalachian states can seek up to US $100,000 for land acquisition and related project costs. With a mission to conserve lands and waters, The Nature Conservancy supports fee and easement purchases that enhance resilience, connectivity, and community water and nature access benefits.

Preserving American Historical Treasures

The 1772 Foundation was named in honor of its first restoration project, Liberty Hall in Union, New Jersey. Built in 1772 by William Livingston, New Jersey’s first elected governor, the residence was home to generations of the Livingston and Kean families, including Stewart Barney Kean, who founded the 1772 Foundation in 1984. Liberty Hall has since been converted into a museum and the Foundation, thanks to Mr. Kean, continues to provide ongoing support for it and many others like it across the country. Upon Mr. Kean's death, in 2002, the Foundation grew from a $2.1 million private foundation to one with over $80 million in assets. In the twenty years since then, the foundation has granted more than $50 million for historic preservation work throughout the United States. After learning of the Kean Family's ties to slavery, the 1772 Foundation has committed to increased funding to racial justice and African American history funding.

Massachusetts Historic Preservation Matching Grants

The 1772 Foundation has announced that funding in the form of 1:1 matching grants of up to $10,000 will be made available for the following historic preservation projects: exterior painting, finishes and surface restoration, fire detection/lightning protection/security systems, repairs to/restoration of porches, roofs and windows, repairs to foundations and sills, and chimney and masonry repointing.

To demonstrate the sustainability of historic sites, applicants maybe required to submit a cyclical maintenance plan, condition assessment, restoration plan or stewardship plan that has been prepared or updated within the last five years. If an appropriate plan does not exist, the Foundation will consider providing support for development of a plan on a case-by-case basis

The Foundation will consider the following: 

• exterior painting, finishes, and surface restoration
• installation or upgrade of fire detection, lightning protection, and security systems
• repair or restoration of porches, roofs, and windows
• structural foundation and sill repair or replacement
• chimney and masonry repointing (exterior only)
• ​climate action to include energy audit assessments, insulation upgrades, alternative energy sources (solar, wind, geothermal, etc.), upgraded/converted systems/appliances, and storm windows. Water mitigation projects may be considered, but preference will be given to decarbonization upgrades. Applicants are encouraged to leverage programs offered by utility providers.

Massachusetts water-focused nonprofits, public agencies, schools, and civic groups in Berkshire County can access funding through Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation for projects addressing water quality and related land issues. Eligible freshwater and land conservation initiatives, including those by unincorporated community groups using a fiscal agent, must provide a 1:1 cash or in-kind match.

Massachusetts commercial, industrial, institutional, nonprofit, and public entities planning hydropower upgrades or new conduit facilities in Massachusetts can access funding through the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center for feasibility studies and construction projects. Awards up to US $300,000 support projects that boost MA RPS-qualified hydropower output, are cost-effective, and provide economic benefits to Massachusetts entities or workers.

Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources

As the State Energy Office, DOER is the primary energy policy agency for the Commonwealth. DOER supports the Commonwealth’s clean energy goals as part of a comprehensive Administration-wide response to the threat of climate change. DOER focuses on transitioning our energy supply to lower emissions and costs, reducing and shaping energy demand, and improving our energy system infrastructure.

Green Communities Grants

The Green Communities Division provides funding opportunities to reduce municipal energy use and costs by way of clean energy projects in municipal buildings, facilities, and schools; guidance, technical assistance, and local support from Regional Coordinators. In addition, the Division provides education on the benefits of clean, affordable, resilient energy, and renewable energy projects.

Program Details

The Green Communities Designation and Grant Program helps municipalities navigate and meet the five criteria required to become a Green Community, in turn qualifying them for grants that finance additional energy efficiency and renewable energy projects at the local level.

Green Communities Grants: DOER Regional School District Decarbonization Grant Program

The DOER Regional School District (RSD) Decarbonization Grant Program (Program) aims to assist RSDs in their transition from fossil fuel equipment to efficient electric alternatives at existing facilities. The grant Program focuses on the preemptive avoidance of in-kind replacement of fossil fuel-based systems and equipment by providing the necessary funding to deploy efficient electrified solutions. This includes but is not limited to financial support for the deployment of renewable thermal technologies for space conditioning, efficient electric water heating, battery-powered facilities maintenance equipment (BPFME), and electric commercial kitchen equipment, where that equipment is replacing a gas-powered alternative.

There are four primary categories for electrification funding under this Program: space heating, water heating, battery-powered facilities maintenance equipment, and commercial kitchen equipment.

The O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community welfare through philanthropic initiatives that support economic stability, workforce development, health services, and disaster relief. Established in 2020, the Foundation seeks to empower underrepresented individuals and organizations in the U.S. by addressing vital community needs. It particularly aims to provide assistance to nonprofits that foster positive change and improve quality of life for those in need, ensuring a lasting impact in local communities.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Massachusetts working on youth development, family services, housing, food security, or environmental stewardship can apply for Chick Fil A Foundation’s True Inspiration Awards, with grants of US $30,000 - US $350,000. Programs that touch water, gardens, or outdoor environmental education may be especially relevant for this page’s visitors.

Urban agriculture organizations and municipal or nonprofit partners in Massachusetts can receive capital funding for commercial food production, processing, and marketing projects that expand access to fresh, local produce in low- and moderate-income urban neighborhoods. Focused on urban farming infrastructure and systems, the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources supports projects that may include water-efficient technologies and climate-resilient growing practices.

Ocean Technology Opportunity Roadmap

Award Potential

• $150,000

The Ocean Innovation Network was developed through collaboration between the Offshore Energy and Emerging Climatetech teams. The goals of the OIN Program are to: 

• Establish a cost-effective and reliable path to in-water testing and demonstration by creating a network of test facilities/sites that cover a range of representative ocean conditions; 
• Invest in partner organizations to support their endeavors to provide the OceanTech Startup community with valuable assets, resources, and programming; and 
• Continue to grow and attract OceanTech Startups to Massachusetts. 

The purpose of the Opportunity Roadmap is to identify high-leverage opportunities where strategic public investment and other interventions can strengthen Massachusetts’ ocean technology ecosystem and deliver meaningful economic development benefits to Commonwealth businesses, residents, and ratepayers.  

Rural public bodies, nonprofit organizations, and federally recognized tribes in Massachusetts can access funding through USDA Rural Development to address emergencies threatening safe, reliable drinking water. Grants up to US $1,000,000 support waterline extensions, repairs, new wells, reservoirs, transmission lines, and treatment plants in eligible low-income rural areas and towns of 10,000 or fewer residents.

State and local governments, private nonprofits, and federally recognized tribes in rural Massachusetts can apply for USDA: Rural Development’s Water & Waste Disposal funding to build or improve water and waste systems. Support covers drinking water, sewer, solid waste, and stormwater projects, plus related costs like engineering, land acquisition, and start-up operations.

Agricultural producers, non-industrial private forest owners, Tribes, and water management entities in Massachusetts can receive financial assistance to implement conservation practices that improve water quality, conserve water resources, and enhance soil health. With a mission to address natural resource concerns, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service provides support for projects that reduce agricultural pollution, protect drinking water, and restore wildlife habitat through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program.